NHS Forth Valley unveils new 'rapid' cancer diagnostic service
A new service designed at speeding up cancer referrals for those whose symptoms don't meet the normal criteria has been introduced in the region.
NHS Forth Valley has introduced the new Rapid Cancer Diagnostic Service (RCDS) aims to provide quicker answers for patience and offer peace of mind for many, who will end up getting the positive news that they don't have cancer.
According to health chiefs, the primary goal is to rule out cancer quickly, reduce uncertainty, and ensure that anyone who does need further care is identified and treated without delay.
Dr. Jonathan Begley, NHS Forth Valley Clinical Lead for the RCDS, said: 'Early cancer diagnosis is a key focus across Scotland. By speeding up the process of diagnosis and treatment, we can improve cancer outcomes and ensure patients get the support they need as quickly as possible.
'The new service relies on collaboration between doctors, nurses, and specialists. The key steps in the process include early identification, quick referrals, thorough assessments, coordinated testing, and timely diagnosis.
'Referrals to the new service are made via primary care ie. patients will be referred to the RCDS by their GP or Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP). Before the referral, patients will have a physical examination and blood tests to help determine whether further investigation is needed.
'Patients should inform their GP or ANP if they will be unavailable for the next three weeks (for example, if they're going on holiday) as appointments for the RCDS are usually scheduled quickly.'
Forth Valley joins five other health boards from across Scotland - those being Fife, Dumfries & Galloway, Ayrshire & Arran, Lanarkshire and Borders - in offering the service.
Scottish Government ministers have also been working to ensure access for all patients across the country for a faster pathway, as well as ensuring progress on earlier cancer diagnosis rates and outcomes.
Health Secretary Neil Gray said: 'Improving cancer services remains a key priority for the Scottish Government, as outlined in our 10-year cancer strategy.
'Evidence shows that Rapid Cancer Diagnostic Services play a crucial role in enabling earlier diagnosis and improving the experience of care for patients with non-specific but concerning symptoms.
'The launch of this new RCDS in NHS Forth Valley marks another important step towards delivering more timely and person-centred cancer services across Scotland.
'By expanding access to these innovative pathways, we are helping ensure better outcomes for people diagnosed with cancer, while providing earlier reassurance to those that have cancer ruled out.'
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